Vancouver's Railway Club Shuts Down

Late last year, historic Vancouver venue the Railway Club announced that it was up for sale. Unfortunately, they couldn't find a buyer and have now ceased operations altogether.

The Railway Club opened in 1931 and began hosting concerts in 1981. Since then, it's become a musical institution for Vancouverites, hosting everyone from the Tragically Hip and Blue Rodeo to rising local acts.

In a post to their Facebook page, the club's owners explained that its closure was effective immediately. They blamed their closure on high business expenses, particularly rent.

Read the Railway Club's full statement about its closure below.

The Owners and Management of the Railway Club are sorry to announce the closure of the business, effective immediately. We would like to thank our wonderful employees, customers, promoters, suppliers, and especially the performers that have made the Railway Club much more than just a business these many years. A concerted and very public effort to sell the club over the last few months has seen no buyer come forward. Unfortunately, the long-term and persistent combination of relatively high expenses, in particular rent, as compared to business receipts has left the business unable to continue. We deeply regret this outcome and the effect it will have on all the stakeholders, as well the cultural scene in Vancouver. Regretfully, the city has lost music venues and nightclubs over the past couple of years and we hope this trend will see a reversal. Again, our thanks to everyone who at one time or another climbed the steep stairs up to the Railway Club; we wish the best going forward to all those affected.